9:00am Saturday 4th July 2009
By Tim Ridgway
Universities in Sussex have expressed their “disappointment” after the Government announced a freeze in student loans but a rise in fees.
Those starting higher education in September 2010 will see their tuition costs increase by 2.04% to £3,290 a year.
But grants for poorer students and universal loans for living costs will remain stagnant for the first time since the system was introduced.
The news follows reports in The Argus this week that students in Sussex could be forced to drop out of university due to a lack of summer work.
A University of Brighton spokeswoman said: “We are disappointed by this announcement as we are keen that the best and most able students can attend university regardless of their financial situation.”
A Sussex University spokeswoman said they hoped the Government would reconsider the decision.
The move has also been criticised by the National Union of Students.
Wes Streeting, president of the NUS, said: "Students are already racking up thousands of pounds of debt. It appears that the inflation rate is being applied where it suits universities, but not where it will improve student support.
"In the context of the current recession, these real-terms cuts in student support will be felt in students' pockets."
The government made the announcement to Parliament on Wednesday, saying it “reflected the current low inflationary environment”.
While tuition fees rise, grants for students from families earning £25,000 or less will be capped at £2,906.
Students with a household income of less than £50,020 will be eligible only for a partial grant.
David Lammy, the universities minister, also said that while loans awarded to cover fees will increase to meet the rise, those for living costs will stay the same.
The maximum loan for living expenses will remain unchanged at £4,950 a year.
Both universities said it was too early to comment on the effect the changes would have on students.
The University of Brighton said they had a wide range of advice available on money-matters for under and postgraduates.
The University of Sussex said it had a number of financial packages, including bursaries and scholarships, to help students meet the cost of studying.
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